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How to Manage Pests

Pests in Gardens and Landscapes

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Liquidambar, Sweet gum—Liquidambar spp.
Family Hamamelidaceae (Witch hazel family)

Plant identification

Liquidambar spp. are deciduous trees and grow from 25 to 60 feet. Trees have spiny pods that hang through the winter and drop in the spring. They are known for great fall color.

Optimum conditions for growth

The climatic zone for Liquidambar varies by species. They prefer full sun and and prefer slightly acid soils. They tend to become chlorotic in more alkaline soils. They are tolerant of lawn water or conditions with limited summer water. Liquidambar does best as a street tree; it forms surface roots that can be annoying in lawns.

Fall color
Fall color of Liquidambar

Pests and disorders of Liquidambar spp.

Invertebrates

Diseases

Diseases (continued)

Environmental disorders

Weeds

Vertebrates

Leaves and seedpod
Liquidambar leaves and seed pod

Statewide IPM Program, Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of California
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